FIAT 124 Spider Leverages Tradition & Driving Fun

Though “branding” is way over due for “jumping the shark”, especially in auto industry, it is interesting to observe FCA using its FIAT and ALFA Romeo marques to carve out valuable market niches.

While the newest FCA issued Alfa Romeo Giulia is front and center, last year’s revived Fiat 124 Spider showed a strong 21 percent uptick in sales last month.

A recent test drive of the FIAT 124 is a reminder, as we peer into the world of autonomous and anonymous transportation pods, that there is a special magic to driving a fun little drop-top roadster at this time of year.

Built in Japan on a modified Mazda MX-5 platform, the FIAT 124 retains its Italian sporting character with a performance suspension including extra bracing and tuned springs and shocks.

The modern yet traditional looking two-seater is powered by an Italian built 164 horsepower, 1.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine mated with 6 speed manual transmission.

The cockpit requires a low drop in entry maneuver. Once planted in the supportive stitched leather seating the driving feel is excellent and ready for a ripping good ride at $26,000 to $28,000.

2017 FIAT 124 Spider Specs

MSRP: $28,195
MPG: 26 city / 35 highway
Horsepower: 164 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Engine: 1.4 L 4-cylinder
Curb weight: 2,436 lbs
Dimensions: 160″ L x 69″ W x 49″ H
Tire size: P205/45R17